Wednesday 7 October 2015

Why travel by rail in Europe



Q: Why travel by train in Europe?
A: Airports are usually far from cities and getting there is expensive.
On arrival there are onerous security checks and often long queues to check in.
You need to allow at least 3 hours to check in for a flight.
Once you arrive at your destination there is the usual long delay in receiving your luggage and then another expensive taxi ride to your hotel.
A day wasted – so go by rail and have a great and stress-free day.

European railway stations are centrally located and you need just 30 minutes ( I have done it in less) to check in and board your train. Then sit back and enjoy the gently unfolding scenery, charge up your mobile devices (some trains even offer WiFi) and have a tasty drink and snack in the Buffet Car. Where required immigration control is concluded on board. All too soon your smooth train journey ends and within minutes you could be at your new hotel.
Tip: Where possible I stay at hotels within walking distance of city stations to save money on taxis. The station precinct usually offers many services like auto banks, restaurants which stay open till late and convenience stores. It is also a hub for local busses, trams and tours.

Q: Which trips offer the best scenery?
A: Most European rail journeys will give you an insight into both city and country life but my favourite journeys are in the mountainous regions. I recently travelled by train from Munich to Innsbruck in the Tirol and then on to Paris via Zurich. It was pure chocolate box stuff all the way.  


Q: How do you choose the correct rail pass?
A: There is a wide range of passes with one to suit every possible application. Choices vary from single or multiple country passes, youth passes, passes valid for a set amount of days within 1/2/3 months.  For families there are passes that allow minor children to travel free and for older children to obtain large discounts. Passes are available in First and Second Class and there are Saver Passes for groups of adults travelling together.

Q: How much are the passes?
A: Eurail Select Saver passes start from 144 Euro and can be used in 5 adjoining European countries for 5 days of travel within two months. This price is per person and is for a minimum of two adults travelling together in Low Season.

Q: Any tips on how to maximise your passes?
A: Plan your trip in advance to ensure that you purchase a suitable pass with enough travel days for your itinerary. If you are on a really tight budget you can take an overnight train to your next  destination and save on a night in a hotel.

For travel packages to Europe please visit our Europe Holidays page.

By John Ridler.
PR and Media Manager - Thompsons Holidays

Thursday 30 July 2015

Weekend getaways in Cape Town

V&A Waterfront, Cape TownRomantic holidays are a must for almost all of us. We all want to create new memories to cherish with your significant other half. But we have to accept that every now and then, one needs a little bit of time away from a partner. Sometimes a brief separation is all we need to remember how it feels to miss each other. For that quick separation, why not travel with a group of friends on a girls only/ boys only trip  to Cape Town.

BESTIES BREAKAWAY
roller-skating in Cape TownFor a girls only getaway it's all about no stress, lots of glamour, non-stop fun and absolutely no time for boys. If you missed the Cape Town Fashion week, don't worry because the Mother City has an extensive range of hot spots and activities to look forward to. Like the Bay Harbour Market, situated on the water's edge in the old authentic part of the Hout Bay Harbour and a perfect place for some fun and shopping. It cant be a girls only vacation without a spa treatment and Mangwanani African Spa is just for that.  Add to that a bit of chocolate & wine pairing and you’ve got a heavenly day. 
Groot Constantia, Le Roi Beach Bar and the fabulous Camps Bay are just some of the many amazing attractions you can visit. Last but not least you can’t miss the V&A Waterfront, you have to shop till you drop (Just remember to bring an empty suitcase).

BROS & BREWS
Playing golf in Cape TownThink bachelor parties, Father's Day, Birthday celebrations - you'll be surprised by how many reasons you can come up with for a boys only getaway. With fresh air and the finest fairways, the Cape has a lot to offer. There are many excuses for you to get your buddies to head to the Cape and say hello to the to the Fairest Cape in all the world. Get your kit for a round or two of premium golf, go on a beer tasting tour at Newlands Brewery or plan something adventurous like clay pigeon shooting or paintball.

So what type of weekend person are you? No matter what your answer is, you can rest assured that the mother city has all the perfect ingredients for your type of weekend. We at Thompsons have obliged by creating a collection of packages to suit every type of weekend person. Whether you choose to get away alone, on a romantic holiday or with your buddies go for it. 

By Dumi Khumalo, Thompsons Holidays

Tuesday 30 June 2015

THOMPSONS’ TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN MPUMALANGA

You could not imagine a finer big game area than this, with super-luxurious Africa-style lodges, gourmet bush cuisine and exciting, adrenaline-pumping wildlife experiences. This is big game territory. In the world-famous Kruger National Park you’ll find an impressive concentration of game species, and the best developed infrastructure of all of Africa’s game parks.

In addition to the memorable safari adventures, the region holds many more sensational natural attractions. Mpumalanga has so many attractions for the day visitor, ensure you taste and savour the best the province has to offer. Here is our list of not to be missed experiences in Mpumalanga.

1. Kruger National Park Safari
Open Vehicle Safari - It goes without saying - A safari in an open vehicle into Kruger National Park is what most people want to do in Mpumalanga. The Kruger is not only vast with a glorious diversity of wildlife and birdlife, it’s also renowned for its ever-changing landscapes.
Morning Walking Safari - Get up before the sun to explore the deep African bush on foot, get up close and personal with game, big and small, and learn something precious about their world.

Sunset Safari -  An African sunset is a magical thing! To experience it from inside the Kruger National Park is a unique treat! From the tiered seats of an open safari vehicle you can enjoy the best view of wildlife as nightfall approaches. 

2. The Panorama Route
God's Window
You will stand in awe at the view from God’s Window near Graskop, or the Blyde River Canyon’s rust-coloured sandstone cliffs and craggy buttresses. The rolling hills and spectacular rock formations of the rugged Northern Drakensberg Mountain Range touch the sky, and form a dramatic backdrop to the third largest canyon of its kind in the world. Cascading waterfalls plummet dramatically into the gorge as you view from the top. A stop at the historic town of Pilgrim's Rest is also a must.

4. Endangered Wildlife Experience
Cheetah
Situated in a part of Mpumalanga renowned for its natural beauty, you will find the Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre. Enjoy a scenic drive before arriving at this sanctuary (the largest of its kind in South Africa) where dedicated conservationists do all they can to rehabilitate and preserve species to save them from extinction.





5. Chimpanzee Eden & Botanical Garden
Did you know that chimpanzees share 98 percent of our DNA? These charming primates are very entertaining, and you can observe them in semi-wild surroundings at the Jane Goodall Institute, Chimpanzee Eden. The 1000 hectare game reserve is home to chimpanzees who have been rescued from traumatic situations and who have a chance to recover in the sanctuary which resembles their natural habitat.

6. White Water Rafting – Sabie River
White Water Rafting
The Sabie River provides 20 rapids (grade 2–3) with areas of scenic vegetation and outstanding wildlife viewing. This 8 km route is yielding to the novice, yet accommodating to the thrill seeker within all of us. Enjoy swimming, bum sliding and wave surfing with a boogie board at “Lions rock”. 
7. Horse Trails
Become one with nature as you enjoy the beautiful Lowveld scenery of the Sabana River, Indigenous bush and fruit Orchards on horseback. Small game and hippo are still roaming around in the area and might be spotted on your trail. Abundant bird life makes bird watching a feast; so don’t forget your binoculars.

8. Quad Biking
Quad Biking in Mpumalanga
A quad biking adventure in Mpumalanga will exceed all your expectations. Trails run through the most scenic Sabie River Valley, Winding along the Sabana River, indigenous vegetation, mountain hills and other streams. The tracks vary from technical to very easy, so there is something to offer the expert as well as the beginner!
9. Bourke’s Luck Potholes
These Dramatic natural sculptures are a series of natural geological formations that seem nearer to art than nature. Formed by centuries of water flowing through the landscape, this natural attraction is made up of inter-connected pools, interlaced with sandstone outcrops.






10. Sudwala Caves
Sudwala Caves
Regarded as some of the the oldest known caves in the world, Sudwala caves are an amazing array of mighty chambers with giant stalactites, stalagmites and flowstone formations. The caves rest in pre-cambrian dolomite rocks that are amongst the second oldest known sedimentary rocks on Earth. 


For Thompsons' packages to Mpumalanga click here

Thursday 21 May 2015

Why You’l Love Thailand's Hua Hin

Hua Hin beach
Many of Bangkok’s elite look the way of Hua Hin for a holiday or when they want to escape the busy life in Bangkok. While most holiday regions in Thailand cater mainly for foreigners, Hua Hin is a holiday region most frequented by Thais and offers a more authentic Thai experience

Hua Hin train station
Hua Hin Train Station
Just 200 km south of Bangkok, Hua Hin boasts a 3-km long beach, old style charm, an active fishing port and Kangwon Palace, Thailand’s official royal residence since 1928.

This - the oldest and most traditional Thai resort has all the attractions of a modern holiday destination, plus the charm and fascination of a still active port. The near proximity of this region to the capital – Bangkok, makes it easy to reach and is one of the reasons why the elite in Thailand love making Hua Hin their home. It’s a wonderful mix of city and sea with a cosmopolitan ambiance - add to that, world class golf courses, lively markets, tasty street treats and long wide beaches. Hua Hin is for those who prefer being near the action in Bangkok, but far away enough to have a white-sand experience. Its a good consideration for a great Thai holiday, renowned for exquisite health resorts for people looking to rejuvenate their health.

So, what to do in Hua Hin?
Beach at Dusit Thani Hua Hin Hotel
This is Thailand’s original beach resort and offers something different from what other areas such as Phuket offer. The beach and city combination with a cosmopolitan feel is worth the experience.

A visit to town is always special and one of the must do experiences if you are spending a few nights.  One attraction that almost rivals the beach is the night Market. It’s a favourite spot to eat for locals. There is a lot of fresh sea food on offer, just choose your catch and it will be prepared for you there and then.  But it’s not only about food; you can pick up some great textile bargains at the various stalls aligned along the each other. Other than the night market, there are some good entertainment spots. You will get a much better chance to experience the culture and mingle with the locals on a night in town.

Hua Hin Hills Vineyard
Hua Hin Hills Vineyard
If you are a wine connoisseur you might want to visit the Hua Hin Hills Vine Yard. 45 Km west of the town, in a scenic mountain valley are some beautiful vineyards, made up of different cultivars used in Thailand’s Moonsoon Valley Wine Label. There are daily vineyard tours on offer, including dinner and wine tasting. If you are lucky, you will encounter the beautiful Elephants that roam free within the vineyards.


Trekking - at Sam Roi Yot National Park
Sam Roi Yot National Park is a good option for adventure seekers. Towering limestone outcrops form a rocky jigsaw-puzzled landscape at this 98-sq-km park, whose names translates to Three Hundred Mountain Peaks. There are also caves, beaches and coastal marshlands to explore for outdoor enthusiast and bird-watchers. With its proximity to Hua Hin, the park is well travelled by day-visitors and contains a mix of public conservation land and private shrimp farms.

Hua Hin has a lot to offer for travellers. It is definitely a great option if you are on a short visit to Thailand or if you do not want to travel far from the capital city.

For travel packages to Thailand please visit our Far East page.
By Dumi Khumalo - Thompsons Holidays

Saturday 16 May 2015

Take a Sho’t Left

Sho’t Left is what South African taxi commuters shout when they want to get off the taxi on the next stop or they want a ride to a nearby destination. For us it's a vacation close to home, but far away enough for one to feel relaxed and escape the mundane environment. It's simply a holiday close to home, or what some call a "near-cation"  Most of us are guilty of not exploring our local destinations enough. Normally when holidays come to mind, we immediately think of abroad and far away destinations.  A local holiday can be more relaxing, fun, and certainly less costly than a big travel extravaganza. You don't have to go far for an amazing holiday if you are a South African citizen.

So, a Sho’t Left holiday is an easy, no passport, nor visa or foreign currency required type of holiday. It’s a stress free deal and is ideal if you have limited days for a holiday. It’s as easy as getting your friends, lover or family and heading out to somewhere fun. Take advantage of the long weekends and holidays during the year, the good times are just a road trip away.

There are many advantages of going on a local holiday - here are some suggestions to make the best of it:

1. Find timely, exciting events. If you are a fun-loving person, there are plenty of great events throughout the year in South Africa. Keep track of them and plan ahead for your local holiday to coincide with something special.

2. Share the costs. No need to go at it alone, call your friends or family, get a family size vehicle and get on with your holiday. You can save on petrol and share the cost of accommodation, food and other expenses while strengthening friendships and family bonds.

3. Planning goes a long way. Just like any other holiday, you should have a plan of where to go and what to do. It’s imperative to know your country. So, while we all have bucket lists of international destinations we dream of – everyone should have a list of local areas they have not visited. Tick something off the list at least once a year.

4. Lookout for great deals. The good thing about local travel is that sometimes you don’t need to plan too long ahead. If a good deal comes along, you don’t need to apply for a visa, get foreign currency or deal with too many customs officials at the airport.

5. Go off-season. Most South African destinations are pleasant all year round. So while we receive most international tourist in summer – why don’t you take advantage of the low hotel and service rates during off-peak season. Believe me, you will have more beach space to yourself!

6. Just let go. Last but not least, just let go of stress and work issues. Take a Sho’t Left and come back refreshed.

Don’t be reluctant to explore your country. It really is fun and easier to take a local holiday
Check out our local South African deals for more ideas on your next Sho't Left
By Dumi Khumalo - Thompsons Holidays

Wednesday 25 March 2015

Thompsons top 8 Victoria Falls experiences


Be in awe as you witness the world’s largest curtain of falling water with an unbelievable 546 million cubic metres of water cascading down its 108 metre drop every minute during the rainy season. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, “the smoke that thunders” continues to amaze travellers ever since David Livingstone became the first European to document the discovery of the falls in 1865. Victoria Falls has so much to offer. Not only can you view the spectacular Victoria Falls from different perspectives (Zimbabwe and Zambia sides), you can also experience the multitude of adventurous activities on offer - the choices are endless.

Here is our top 8 of the best experiences in Victoria Falls. 

1. Bungi Jumping
Bungi jump 111 metres off the Victoria falls Bridge - one of the best jumps in the world.
Take the plunge into the Batoka Gorge, with the Zambezi rushing up to meet you, only to stop 10m short of the water. You have a choice of a solo jump or a tandem jump with a partner.


2. The Boma dinner
With the warmth and hospitality of Zimbabwe’s people, The Boma offers a unique experience that awakens the senses with amazing tastes, sights, sounds and smells of Africa. It’s more than just a dinner; it’s an unforgettable African experience. The Boma specialises in a superb selection of traditional Zimbabwean dishes which are accompanied by entertainment throughout your meal from traditional dancers, the Sangoma (fortune teller) is also available for fortune telling. Everyone’s tastes are catered for, and the adventurous are enticed with local delicacies such as Mopani worms and game stews. After dinner you can join in the drumming extravaganza from 21:00, which for many, is the highlight of the evening.

3. Sunset Cruise
Take in the spectacular views of the sunset on a cruise on the Zambezi River as the beauty of the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park floats by. Get a chance to observe animals coming
down to the river’s edge for a drink. A two and a half hour period afloat the mighty Zambezi offers unforgettable African sunsets and many animal & bird sighting opportunities. Enjoy the most unique vantage point to watch hippo, crocodiles and various animals that come to the river’s edge to drink. Sip a sundowner and enjoy tasty snacks as the light fades – a gorgeous burnt-orange glow on the river – spectacular!

4. Dinner cruise
Why not combine a sunset cruise with an evening dinner under the African skies. Enjoy the African sunset aboard the fifty seater restaurant boat. Evening drinks and canapés followed by an elegant plated three course meal. Subtle lighting, great ambiance, exclusivity of the river all lends itself to a once in a lifetime river dining experience. An absolute must when visiting Victoria Falls.


5. Water Rafting
Regarded as one of the world’s greatest white water adventures, rafting down the mighty Zambezi is an experience of a lifetime. Experience a high-adrenaline mix of grade 3 to grade 5 rapids which are separated by calm pools allowing you time to enjoy the scenery and take a breather before the next roller-coaster rapid!



6. Flight of the Angels
Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the majestic falls from a helicopter or experience the might of the falls up close and personal on a microlight flight.

Whether you chose the helicopter or micro-light flight, you will enjoy 30 minutes of a bird’s eye view over the falls, including the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.


7. Swim in the “Devil’s Pool”
During low water, normally at the end of August to mid-January, visitors have the opportunity to swim in the rock pool right on the edge of the falls with a 103-metre drop on the other side. The pool is adjacent to the famous Livingstone Island. Access to this pull is limited (only 16 quests at a time) therefore it’s wise to book early.



8. Zambezi River by canoe
Experience the tranquil side of the Zambezi River by canoe. Feel a part of the natural
world as you quietly slip through the water and observe all manner of wildlife.  With at least 50 common species of bird that can be seen even in the quiet months – it’s a birders heaven. Be prepared to see big game including hippo, buffalo, wild dog and elephant.





Enjoy the exciting variety of activities in Victoria Falls with Thompsons Holidays.
For travel packages to Victoria Falls please visit our Africa Holidays page and browse our brochure.
By Cameron Charlie - Thompsons Holidays

Monday 2 March 2015

Keep your phone bill low while on holiday

We all want to use our mobile phones seamlessly between boarders, but no one wants a heavy cell phone bill after an awesome holiday. 

I've seen clients livid after receiving bills that were up to 10 times more than what they usually spend. Always remember that when you are roaming overseas, you are likely to be billed twice for everything you do. You are billed firstly by the roaming network, and then by your home network. All mobile network companies have roaming deals with  international counterparts in most countries that you will visit. Unfortunately these partnerships are rarely favourable to us customers.

Why do foreign networks charge you such high amounts when you roam on their networks? This is because they know very well that they only have a few days to make as much money as possible from travellers. Their short term profit strategy is to get as much money out of travellers as possible (and they will not be nice about it). This is different from home network providers who have a longer time period to make profit from subscribers.

So here are a few tips to keep you out of trouble.

1.  Get a prepaid SIM
Prepaid rates are normally cheaper, so it’s wise to replace your contract SIM with a prepaid SIM card while on holiday. Send your prepaid details to those who are important and may need to reach you. 
If using a different SIM card is not an option, we have additional tips for you. 

2.  Know your roaming rates
Before departing, call your service provider or visit their website to find out about rates that you are likely to be charged in the destination you will be travelling to.

3. Data usage cap
It’s a good idea to request your service provider for a cap on your usage while you are away. However, experience has taught me that this does not always work as planned.  Your home service provider may apply the cap, but the roaming network may not

4. Download & update in advance
If you think you might get bored and need to stream music or videos, better download your content before you leave. The same applies for maps, travel guides and other travel apps which can be used offline when you are at your destination. This will save you a lot of money.

5. Turn off your data services
Turn off your data connection and make sure that none of your applications are enabled to override your data roaming settings. If you won’t be on your apps all day, its best to turn data off and only have access to it via Wi-Fi.  Remember to switch off all free services that you may subscribe to (Email, News apps, Weather apps, Twitter, Facebook etc.)

Double check your data settings because most apps automatically update themselves daily. Therefore, even when you are not using these apps they will keep depleting your data. When you move to a different country, most apps will have a lot of destination related information to be updated

6.  Disable your Voicemail
If you opt for international roaming and you know that people might try calling you when your phone is off - disable your voice mail. This is because most service providers will charge you every time someone reaches your voicemail while you roam.

7. Use Wi-Fi
Almost all hotels offer Wi-Fi these days. So take advantage of free Wi-Fi connections that are offered in most hotels and tourist spots.

8. Track and limit your Usage
If you dont have the option to switch off your data or use a prepaid, try to keep track of your usage with a data monitoring app. Most smart phones have native usage trackers. If your device does not have an app, you can opt for one of many data tracking apps that are free to download.  Spend less data on the internet by opting for mobile friendly websites. On emails, avoid downloading big attachments. So unless it’s something important, it’s best to wait until you get home to open it.

9. Don’t get your mobile stolen!
Probably the most important thing to remember is to keep your phone safe.  A lost phone means you won’t only have to worry about a high bill, but getting a new phone as well. You don’t want crooks running up a hefty bill and sharing inappropriately using your personal information.


SUMMARY:
  1. Turn off your data services
  2. Know your roaming rates
  3. Get a prepaid SIM
  4. Disable your Voicemail
  5. Activate a data usage cap
  6. Download & update in advance
  7. Use Wi-Fi
  8. Track and limit your usage
  9. Don’t get your mobile stolen!
By Dumi Khumalo - Thompsons Holidays